August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month
A time to celebrate parents, babies, and the unique journey of breastfeeding. If you’ve been there, you know: breastfeeding is a beautiful experience that can also be very challenging. It’s late-night feedings, endless snuggles and connection, moments of doubt, and plenty of little victories along the way. No matter where you are in your journey, you deserve to feel supported and encouraged.
Celebrating Every Parent’s Journey
Every family’s feeding journey looks different, and every effort to give your baby the best start deserves to be celebrated. This month, let’s honor the dedication of parents and caregivers, spread awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding, uplift those who and encourage one another to seek the support we all deserve.
The Benefits of Breastfeeding
Breastmilk is often referred to as “Liquid Gold” because of its incredible benefits..
- Breast milk is tailor-made to baby and contains the perfect balance of nutrients and antibodies to help protect little ones from illness.
- Supports brain development and growth and provides lifelong benefits and protection against diseases such as obesity, diabetes and asthma.
- Breastmilk is easier for little ones to digest than formula.
- Breastfed babies typically have lower risk of pneumonia, ear infections and SIDS
- Breastfeeding can also lower the risk of certain health conditions, such as breast cancer, for parents who nurse their babies and create a special closeness that many families treasure.
Support Makes a World of Difference
While breastfeeding is natural, it doesn’t always come naturally. Many new parents hit some bumps in the road—from latching difficulties to questions about milk supply or balancing nursing/pumping and returning to work. Having the right support can make or break a new moms breastfeeding journey, which is why local resources are so important.
Here in Tuscarawas County, the WIC staff at the Tuscarawas County Health Department provides free breastfeeding support to families. Whether you’re pregnant and planning ahead, just beginning your breastfeeding journey, or needing guidance along the way, WIC’s team is here to help. You don’t have to navigate breastfeeding alone.
To learn more or connect with local breastfeeding support, call 330-343-5555, ext. 1540.
For more helpful information and resources, visit Johns Hopkins Breastfeeding Support.